I Quit Social Media 10 Years Ago.

Ten years ago, I deleted all of my social media accounts. Facebook. Instagram. Twitter (now X). Plus a few platforms that no longer exist. (Remember Vine?)

Initially, I never intended to quit social media entirely. It all started with a tiny experiment: a three-month break from social media over the summer. Just a temporary pause.

I told myself, “I will step away for a few months and see how it goes. Will I miss it? Feel disconnected from my friends? Will there be a negative impact on my career? Fewer clients? Lower sales? I don’t know. But there’s only one way to find out. I have to try it and see.”

During my social media sabbatical, I noticed that my mind felt less cluttered. My concentration improved. It felt easier to lock into a focused flow state at work and get big projects done.

I found myself engaging with the world in a different way, noticing the small details around me (light filtering through the trees, the sound of birds, the cool air on my skin) rather than staring down at my phone so much of the time, oblivious to my surroundings. Overall, I felt less distracted and more creative.

When the summer ended, I realized, “I like how this change feels. I don’t have any particular desire to return to social media.”

So, I didn’t.

That was a decade ago.

Since then, I’ve been asked a lot of questions about this choice, including:

• What prompted you to quit social media? (Was there a particular experience that led to this decision?)
• If you don’t use social media, how do you stay connected with colleagues and friends?
• How do you stay on top of the news?
• How do you find clients? Sell spots for your writing retreats? Sell books? (Isn’t building a social media following a ‘must-do’ for entrepreneurs?)
• Do you ever miss it?
• Do you think social media is “bad”?
• Do you think your decision to leave social media has “held back” your career in some way? Would you be more successful today if you had stayed?
• If someone were thinking about changing their relationship with social media (or technology / screen time overall), what are the first steps you’d recommend?

Below, I answer all of these questions.

I hope that hearing my story is interesting and thought-provoking, and that it inspires you to consider what kinds of changes you’d like to make in your own life or career.

• What prompted you to quit social media? (Was there a particular experience that led to this decision?)

It was a variety of factors, not just one.

Mainly, I felt concerned that I was spending an excessive amount of time on social media. Time that might be better spent rolling out my yoga mat, connecting with nature, spending quality time with my loved ones, honing my professional skills, writing my next novel, and so on.

Excessive scrolling was taking a toll on my mental health. I often felt distracted, mentally cluttered, and fatigued, and was having OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) flare-ups. Strong compulsions to do ritualistic behaviors (like checking my front doorknob 20 times in a row to confirm that it was locked, walking to my car, getting in, then returning to the door to check it “just one more time”) which degraded my quality of life and made my world smaller and more limited.

I recall thinking, “I wish I could shampoo my brain and rinse away all the debris that has accumulated over time.” I was craving fresh energy. A reset.

On top of that, I had a series of experiences in my professional life that left me feeling violated and exhausted.

A scammer impersonated me, creating a fake website using my content which they had copy-pasted directly from my site, and photographs of me. I contacted the appropriate authorities and was able to get the fake site taken down.

But then, shortly after that, another scammer pretended to be me, this time using my name and photo to set up a “donation page” for an online fundraiser, raising funds for (what I can only presume was) a fake charity organization. I didn’t even know this was happening until a colleague reached out to ask, “Hey, are you aware of this?” and alerted me to the issue.

To cap it all off, I had also been dealing with a blog reader who exhibited stalker-like behavior, sending me their artwork featuring portraits of me. My gut sensed that something was “off,” but I told myself, “Well, maybe this person is just a big fan of my writing.” Gradually, things escalated, and this individual began searching to find my family members’ and clients’ contact information online, and started emailing them repeatedly. I began to worry about the volume of information about me that was readily available online, and how this might impact my safety and others in my life.

I am not a famous influencer or celebrity, but due to my modest following and presence online, some very unsettling things were happening.

After going through all of this, I needed a break from the Internet.

I wanted to reclaim my privacy and sense of safety. Taking three months off, away from social media, felt like a good start. Three months turned into six, then twelve, then a decade.

Recommended reading: Brain Wash: Detox Your Mind for Clearer Thinking, Deeper Relationships, and Lasting Happiness by David and Austin Perlmutter.

• If you don’t use social media, how do you stay connected with colleagues and friends?

I text and send quick emails to check in with my clients and colleagues periodically.

I love sending audio messages using Voxer. I often send birthday gifts via snail mail.

I put important dates into my calendar, such as a colleague’s book release date, or 10-year business anniversary, to remind myself to reach out and celebrate this milestone with them.

From time to time, I invite one or two colleagues to fly to my hometown for a “work-cation.” Free of charge. I provide accommodation and meals. All they have to do is show up. It’s kinda like a vacation, with long walks, beach time, and hot tubbing at sunset with a mocktail in hand, except we also discuss our professional goals and do some coworking together.

These work-cations provide an opportunity to deepen some of my most important professional relationships … without having to get on a flight and leave home. (Because I live on a remote island and have a toddler, I love when people travel to me.)

In terms of non-work-related friendships, I’m part of a local book club which is always the highlight of my month, and meet up regularly with friends and fellow parents for kids’ playdates, music circle, and story time at the public library. For me, these connections feel more enriching than scrolling and posting.

Recommended reading: Rich Relationships: Create a Million-Dollar Network for Your Business by Selena Soo.

• How do you stay on top of the news?

I read newspapers and listen to podcasts.

I am intentional about seeking out content (podcasts, audiobooks, and beyond) from creators who aren’t “exactly like me” so that I can get glimpses into other realities, identities, and experiences in our world.

I talk to people in my local community (and wider network, including people who live in other states or countries) to find out their actual, lived experiences, so that I’m getting “the news” directly from people who are living through it.

Because I don’t stay on top of the news every day, sometimes, I do miss out on a breaking news story, or find out about something a day or two (or even three) after it has happened. I am okay with this. I believe it’s possible to be an informed citizen, and make a positive contribution to the world, without reading the latest headlines every single day of your life.

Recommended reading: Life As a Daymaker: How to Change the World by Simply Making Someone’s Day by David Wagner.

• How do you find clients? Sell spots for your writing retreats? Sell books?

Great question! I wrote an article on this topic, breaking down exactly how I do it. Enjoy.

Recommended reading: you might also enjoy my article called “20 Ways To Find Clients And Customers Without Using Social Media.”

• Do you ever miss social media?

Nope.

When I decided to step away, I missed the quick dopamine hit that can come from posting and receiving positive comments, likes, hearts, etc. But after a couple of weeks, I didn’t miss it anymore. These days, I rarely think about social media at all.

Recommended reading: The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have by Mark Nepo.

• Do you think your decision to leave social media has “held back” your career in some way? Would you be more successful today if you had stayed?

This depends on how one defines “success.”

I am proud of the career that I have today. I’ve written and created more than 10 books, journals, and card decks, and get to collaborate with wonderful publishers including Penguin Random House, Chronicle, and Hachette.

A few of my career highlights include Our Q&A a Day: a 3-Year Journal for Couples (part of the bestselling Q&A a Day collection of journals, with over 2.5 million sold), The Bibliophile Oracle Deck (a beautiful illustrated card deck for book lovers), and Awestruck (a journal dedicated to finding tiny moments of awe in your everyday life).

Some of my projects have been very strong sellers. Some have not. But I love each and every product that I’ve ever created.

In addition to releasing my own books and products, I also work as a writing partner and editor, and have the honor of working with exceptional clients.

As a writing partner, I help my clients write powerful books that change readers’ lives. Some of these projects include Rich Relationships by Selena Soo (USA Today bestseller, winner of the Gold Medal in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards for the nonfiction/marketing category), Unicorn Team by Jen Kem (USA Today bestseller), We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers (Wall Street Journal bestseller), Your Next Level Life by Karen Arrington (NAACP Image Award winner, outstanding literary work), Ambitious Mother by Dr. Anne Welsh (featuring a Foreword by Robin Arzón, Vice President of Fitness Programming and Head Instructor at Peloton) and many more.

In addition to typing away on my computer, I also lead writing retreats in Hawaii once or twice a year, which I greatly enjoy.

I don’t have millions of readers or followers. I don’t run an eight-figure company (however, congratulations to those who do!). But I have created a quiet, meaningful, and prosperous career that I love. I get to work in my beautiful office, surrounded by books and plants, listening to my favorite music, working on projects that excite me, and making a difference in my own way.

Would I be in a “better” or “different” place today if I had stayed active on social media, and if I had poured time and energy into growing a large following there? Maybe. Maybe not. I am content with who I am and the work I am doing today, so … no regrets.

Recommended reading: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport.

• Do you think social media is “bad”?

No, not necessarily. Just like a knife, social media is a tool, and is not inherently negative or positive.

I believe social media (just like TV, radio, email, and other forms of communication) can be used to do tremendous harm or tremendous good. It all depends on how you use it.

That said, social media was designed to be extremely compelling. It’s meant to hook you in, an alluring infinity pool that can keep you scrolling endlessly.

If you choose to use it, be mindful of this, and set appropriate limits and boundaries that work for you.

Recommended reading: Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life by Nir Eyal.

• If someone were thinking about changing their relationship with social media (or technology/screen time overall), what are the first steps you’d recommend?

Start small. Come up with one change you’d like to make. For instance, maybe you want to stop scrolling on your phone at bedtime.

Consider, “Why do I do this? What’s the ‘need’ that’s being expressed here?”

Maybe at bedtime, you’re craving a little treat, pleasure, fun, beauty, entertainment, or an escape from reality.

Ask yourself, “What are some beautiful alternatives that I could do instead of scrolling?”

Alternatives could be reading a page-turning novel, listening to a guided meditation, answering one question in your journal, sipping herbal tea in your favorite mug, doing wind-down stretches in your soft PJs, or anything else that provides some of the feelings you’re craving.

It’s often said that “behind every behavior is a need.” Try to identify the need you’re experiencing, which could be a need for connection, comfort, validation, reassurance, relief from boredom, or something else. What is an alternative way you could meet this need without reaching for a device?

Perfection is not required in order to make a positive shift in your life. Remember the 80-20 principle. If you avoid mindless scrolling 80% of the time and backslide into old habits 20%, you’re doing pretty great.

Although I no longer use social media, this doesn’t mean my relationship with technology is “perfect.”

Some days, I get lost in my inbox for an unreasonable length of time. Other days, I go down Internet rabbit holes (BuzzFeed tempts me, with her siren call!) and spend a whole hour clicking through photos of “which celebrity wore what” to a Hollywood award ceremony or listicles with “skincare tips for women over 40.” And some days, when I’m on a tight writing deadline, I might park myself in front of a screen for eight or even ten hours, typing furiously, until my eyes are strained and aching.

These things do happen. But nowadays, these occurrences are somewhat rare. They happen sometimes, but not daily. And for me, this has made a big difference.

* * *

You may decide that social media doesn’t need to be a part of your life or career at this time. Great.

Or you might love social media, because it adds valuable connections and inspiration into your life. That’s great, too.

My intention is not to convince you to remain on social media or leave, but rather, to inspire you to approach life with even more curiosity. To ask new questions: “Do I really need to do X just because most people do?” “Could there be another way? “What else could be possible?”

Why not do a tiny experiment in your own life?

A digital experiment, wellness experiment, career experiment, or whatever you feel called to do.

Will the experiment lead to the results you’re hoping for?

What will happen?

There is only one way to find out—and that is simply to do it.

A Lesson From the Forest

Clear Space, Close Loops, Celebrate Wins: My End of the Year Ritual

Want to finish the year feeling calm, organized, and proud of yourself?

Try this end of the year ritual. It has 3 steps:

1. Clear Space
2. Close Loops
3. Celebrate Wins

I do this every year. Simple yet powerful.

Clear Space

Free up space, in whatever way you need most. A few options:

• Unsubscribe from newsletters you no longer read (yes, even this one).
• Cancel subscriptions you haven’t used in an eternity.
• Clear clutter out of your surroundings. Sell. Donate. Discard.
• Do a calendar purge and remove appointments that don’t add anything meaningful to your life.
• If you are self-employed, look at your menu of offerings. Strip it down. Rather than doing a dozen things fairly well, do one or two things with excellence.

Close Loops

• Make a list of unresolved conversations. For instance, the client who wants to hire you but hasn’t officially committed, or anything else that feels like a loose end flapping in the breeze.
• Follow up with each person. Invite them to make a decision.
• Close the loop so that both of you can move on with your lives.

Sample message:

Hi [name],

I hope your holiday season is off to a great start.

During our last conversation, we talked about [project / package / offer / collaboration / etc]. Would you still like to proceed?

If so, great!

If things have changed and you’re no longer interested, no problem.

Either way, let me know, so that I can plan accordingly.

If possible, let me know your decision by [date] because I’m starting my winter break soon. Thank you.

PS. Because you’re working on [goal] right now, I think you’ll love this: [link to an article, podcast, book, music playlist, or something else that this person will appreciate]

Celebrate Wins

• Make a list of wins from the last year.
• Big wins. Tiny wins. Professional wins. Personal wins. Financial wins. Results you secured for your clients. Important decisions you made. Anything you are proud of.
• Read the list. Remember who you are and what you’ve done.

Extra credit: next to each win, write down someone who helped make this victory possible. Send a thank you note to each person.

Sample message:

This year, one of my favorite wins was [describe the victory]. You played an important role in making this happen. Thank you for adding [incredible quality] to my life.

Clear space. Close loops. Celebrate wins.

Do this to wrap up the year with peace, completion, and pride.

-Alex

The Letter: A True Story

I was laying on the floor of my office. Head on the rug. Legs up the wall.

I poised my phone awkwardly above my face, giving Robert a not-especially-flattering view of my chin on our video call.

“I’m not doing so great,” I told him, a tight and creaky feeling in my chest.

“What’s going on, friend?” he asked.

This was August 2024. I explained that 2024 had been one of the most demanding years of my life and my tank was running extremely low. I felt exhausted and mentally foggy. Things that normally excited me felt dull and uninspiring.

It wasn’t due to one thing. It was all the things, piled up on top of each other.

Working full-time while caring for an infant. Sleep deprivation. Postpartum mental health challenges. The pressure of being the sole financial breadwinner for my household. The added challenge of caregiving for a loved one who was battling cancer.

Although I felt proud to be a business owner, wife, mom, and care provider, the combined weight was a lot to carry.

On especially bad days, I felt the pressure physically. Ropey cords in my neck and shoulders, hard like metal. Gnarled lumps in my stomach. Invisible hands tightening around my throat.

“Okay my love,” Robert said, after listening to my sniffly recap. “Here’s what we’re going to do…”

I listened, nose snuffly, eyes stinging with tears.

“First,” said Robert, “What is your final workday of the year going to be? The last day before you start your winter holiday?”

“Probably December 20th,” I said weakly, making a mental checklist of the millions of things I needed to accomplish before the end of the year.

“No,” he responded sternly, “December 1st.”

December 1st? I perked up, imagining the possibility of taking a month-long holiday break at the end of the year. Could I find a way to pull that off?

“Here’s your assignment…” he continued. “You’re going to write a letter as if it’s December 1st. In your letter, describe all the beautiful things that happened over the last 100 days. The goals you hit. The clients you served. The impact you made. The way you showed up with grace and love for your family. The therapist you hired. How proud you feel. Write it down like you’re giving a recap of what happened.”

“Then,” he added, “Read this letter to yourself out loud, every morning, for the next 100 days. Speak it into existence.”

I told him I would do exactly that.

I wrote my letter that same day and read it to myself the next morning. And the next. And the next.

Reading the letter became my new daily ritual. It quieted the noise in my head and sharpened my concentration.

Each time I read it, I felt a powerful sensation—a honing, a taut feeling, like an archer pulling back her bow and taking aim, right at the bullseye. This is who I am. These are my priorities. This is what I am celebrating on December 1st.

Every day, the letter reminded me where to focus my attention and which actions to take.

My final official workday of the year ended up being December 7th, not 1st. There were a few mornings that I forgot to read the letter and ended up skipping that day. A few projects never got finished. Even though I didn’t do things “perfectly,” the magic of the 100 Day Letter still worked.

Almost every single item in my letter came true. Plus a few miracles I never could have predicted.

Pick a date in the future. Maybe 1 year from now. Or 100 days from now. 30 days. Or 10.

What do you want to be celebrating on that day?

Write a letter as if it has already happened.

Read your letter every single day.

Take action to bring your words to life.

So much can change in 100 days, or for that matter, 10 days or 10 hours. You can create a dramatic turnaround in your life in August or October or December, any time of year, any time of day.

Today is not over yet. There is still time to create whatever shift you’re hoping to make. You already know this. But sometimes, you just need a friend to remind you.

Robert was that friend for me. Perhaps today, I can be that friend for you.

100 Day Letter Instructions

Write a letter as if it’s 100 days from now.

This can be a letter to a friend, family member, mentor, coach, or a letterto yourself.

Describe all the wonderful things that unfolded (personally, professionally, or both) during the last 100 days.

Write as if everything already happened and you’re giving a recap.

Template

Dear [Name],

I can’t wait to see what unfolds in the days ahead! This moment is sweet and victorious. And, the best is yet to come.

After Writing Your Letter…

Share your letter with (at least) one person that you trust. Tell them, “This is my vision for the next 100 days. Thank you for supporting me as I work to make this a reality.”

Read your letter to yourself, out loud, every morning, for the next 100 days in a row. Speak it into existence.

Let this letter be a daily reminder of your priorities and the actions you need to take.

If you forget to read your letter 100 days in a row and skip some days, no problem. Reading 20 times is better than 10. Reading 10 times is better than 0. It all helps. Perfection is not required for success.

Words are powerful.

And, words combined with action make us unstoppable.

22 Writing Residencies, Grants, and Other Opportunities That Might Change Your Life

There’s a writing project that’s really important to you.

You need quiet, focused, uninterrupted time to work on it.

You’re craving wide open space on your calendar. No meetings. No notifications. No laundry. No dishes. No adorable-yet-demanding kids. Distraction-free time to think deeply and do your best work.

A private chef, housekeeper, massage therapist, pool, jacuzzi, and breathtaking villa with an ocean view wouldn’t hurt, either.

You’ve been dreaming about going on a luxurious writing retreat, like the one I host in Hawaii every January.

But maybe coming to the Hawaii Writing Retreat is not financially or logistically doable. (At least, not at this exact moment. One day!)

In the meantime, I come bearing good news:

If you love writing … you’re longing for a retreat … and you’re looking for something that costs zero dollars …

There are abundant options for you.

Below, you’ll find 22 residencies, grants, scholarships, fellowships, and other opportunities for writers of all levels.

Plus, a couple of writer-themed hotels at various price points, in case you want to book a solo writing retreat-for-one.

Whether you write fiction, poetry, or nonfiction … and whether you are an emerging voice (“I’ve never been published…”), seasoned pro (“All three of my books are New York Times bestsellers…”), or somewhere in between, you’ll find something for you on this list.

What Is a Writing Residency?

A writing residency is a program where you apply and share info about yourself, your career and achievements, and the project you want to focus on — your book, essay collection, multi-media project, or whatever you intend to create.

Your application gets reviewed by the residency program.

If you are selected, you get housing, meals, and other perks — free!

It’s essentially a writing retreat except you pay nothing. Sometimes, they even pay you.

Some residencies are quite luxurious. Others are more basic and humble.

Below, you’ll find several programs to consider.

While reading this list, if your heart starts beating a little faster (“Oh my gosh, this sounds incredible, I want to go!”) then I strongly encourage you to apply.

Someone is going to be selected. Why couldn’t it be you?

Writing Residencies

• The Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts Residency in Nebraska City, Nebraska

Who it’s for: Writers, composers, visual artists, and other creatives.

From the website: “The program is open to both emerging and established artists from around the world who can demonstrate a serious commitment to their work through prior exhibitions, performances, or publications.”

What’s included: Residencies are 2 to 8 weeks in length. Includes a $175 stipend per week, housing, and a private studio. Up to 78 people are selected each year.

From the website: “The historic town is beautiful and fascinating, with tree-lined brick streets, architecturally-interesting homes and buildings and the most museums per capita of any city in the Midwest.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the KHN Residency website.

• Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Massachusetts

Who it’s for: Fiction writers, poets, and visual artists.

What’s included: 7-month residencies. Recipients receive housing, a monthly stipend, and studio or writing space. Around 20 people are selected each year.

Some recipients have gone on to win the Guggenheim Fellowship, MacArthur Fellowship, Prix de Rome, Pulitzer Prize, and the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Details and how to apply: Visit the Fine Arts Work Center website.

• Hedgebrook Writer-in-Residence in Freeland, Washington

Who it’s for: Women-identified writers of all genres. From the website: “fiction, nonfiction, poetry, TV screenwriters, playwrights, and songwriters are all encouraged to apply.”

What’s included: 2 to 3-week residencies including housing in a private cottage and meals prepared by an on-site chef.

From the website: “Each cottage has an upstairs sleeping loft with a hand-built double bed, lamps, rocking chair, chest of drawers, and a small closet.” “Stained glass windows, pottery sinks, and other features were designed and crafted by local artisans.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Hedgebrook website.

• MacDowell Fellowship in Peterborough, New Hampshire

Who it’s for: Artists in various disciplines, including writers, visual artists, composers, filmmakers, architects, and interdisciplinary artists.

What’s included: Residencies range from 2 weeks to 2 months. Recipients receive a private studio, meals, and accommodations. MacDowell awards need-based travel grants and stipends.

From the website: “Peterborough is a small town in a rural corner of New Hampshire.” “MacDowell studios are scattered across a 450-acre property.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the MacDowell website.

• Yaddo in Saratoga Springs, New York

Who it’s for: Professional writers and artists.

From the website: Writers as well as artists who focus on “choreography, film, musical composition, painting, performance, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video” are welcome to apply.

What’s included: Residencies of 2 weeks to 2 months. Private bedroom and workspace. Financial aid and travel funds are available.

From the website: “Weekly room cleanings, plus linens and fresh towels are provided, and laundry facilities are available. Dinners are served communally in our dining room, while breakfast offerings and lunch are packed up for each artist to carry away.”

“Yaddo has common areas available for guests, several paths through the woods, a swimming pool, a pool table, a ping-pong table, and bicycles in addition to small libraries.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Yaddo website.

• Art Omi Writers Residency in Ghent, New York

Who it’s for: Writers plus artists, translators, dancers, musicians, and architects.

What’s included: 1-week to 2-month residency. Accommodation, food, local transport, and public programming.

From the website: “Abundant, catered meals and comfortable, beautiful lodgings are provided in a scenic location.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Art Omi Writers website.

• Hawthornden Castle Residency in Lasswade, Scotland

Who it’s for: Writers from all genres.

From the website: “The residency is international in character and welcomes applications from writers from all over the world. Creative writers of many kinds – poets, novelists, short-story writers, playwrights, scriptwriters, essayists, creative nonfiction writers, translators – are welcome to apply.”

What’s included: 4-week residency. A stipend of $1,000 is provided for writers traveling from Europe and $2,500 for those traveling from elsewhere.

From the website: “A peaceful setting for creative writers to work without disturbance.” “Writers have the use of a private study bedroom and other communal facilities including an extensive library, studio, drawing room, garden room, as well as the castle garden, walks, woods and grounds.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Hawthornden Foundation website.

• Akademie Schloss Solitude Fellowship in Stuttgart, Germany

Who it’s for: Writers, artists, and scientists.

From the website: “German-language and international literature in all written forms (dramatic texts, lyric poetry, prose, essay, and translation).”

What’s included: Furnished live/work studio in Stuttgart, a monthly grant of €1,300, and travel expenses for arrival and departure.

From the website: “The Akademie maintains 42 living and working studios” including “two pet-friendly studio apartments.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Akademie Schloss Solitude website.

• Randell Cottage Residency in Wellington, New Zealand

Who it’s for: New Zealand and French writers working on a full-length literary work.

What’s included: 6-month residency including accommodation in a heritage cottage, a stipend, and travel support.

Note: to be eligible for this residency, you must be a citizen or resident of either New Zealand or France. Check the site for additional requirements.

Details and how to apply: Visit the Randell Cottage Writers Trust website.

• Bogliasco Foundation Residency at the Liguria Study Center on the Italian Riviera

Who it’s for: Writers, artists, and scholars from around the world.

Open to “individuals of all ages and nationalities who are developing significant new work in the arts and humanities.”

What’s included: Residencies last for 1 month. Includes housing, meals, and a studio space. Recipients must cover their own travel costs.

From the website: “Live and work in bucolic surroundings on the coast near Genoa.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Bogliasco Foundation website.

• NEA/U.S.-Japan Creative Artists Program

Who it’s for: U.S.-based writers, poets, and other creative artists interested in a cultural exchange with Japan.

What’s included: $20,000 for a 3-month residency in Japan, with an additional $4,000 per month for up to 2 more months, plus up to $2,500 for round-trip travel reimbursement. Covers housing, living, and professional expenses.

From the website: “Extremely competitive. Only five artists are selected. Applicants should anticipate a highly rigorous review of their artistry and should have compelling reasons for wanting to work in Japan.”

Details and how to apply: Visit the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission website.

Writing Grants and Scholarships

In addition to applying for a residency, consider applying for a writing grant or scholarship.

A grant or scholarship gives you funding to get your project done.

Some include mentorship, publication or visibility opportunities to share your work, collaboration with peers, and other valuable experiences in addition to funding.

Housing is usually not included. Some grants are referred to as “fellowships.”

A few options…

• NEA Creative Writing Fellowships

Who it’s for: Published creative writers of poetry and prose who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

What’s included: Fellowships of up to $50,000 are awarded annually to support writing time, research, travel, and general career advancement.

Details and how to apply: Visit the NEA Creative Writing Fellowships website.

• James Jones First Novel Fellowship

Who it’s for: U.S. authors who have not yet published a novel. Applicants should be working on a first novel-in-progress.

What’s included: A 1st-place prize of $10,000 is awarded annually, with two additional $1,000 awards for runners-up.

Details and how to apply: Visit the James Jones Fellowship website.

• CINTAS Foundation Fellowship

Who it’s for: Cuban writers and other creative professionals of Cuban lineage living outside of Cuba.

From their website: “CINTAS Fellowships acknowledge creative accomplishments and encourage excellence in architecture & design, creative writing, music composition, photography, and the visual arts.”

What’s included: This fellowship is $25,000.

Details and how to apply: Visit the CINTAS Foundation website.

• Speculative Literature Foundation Grants

Who it’s for: Writers of speculative fiction, including science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

Multiple grants are available for writers at various stages and backgrounds, including emerging writers, established writers, and those from historically marginalized communities.

What’s included: Grants range from $500 to $1,000. Some include mentorship or editorial feedback in addition to funding.

Details and how to apply: Visit the Speculative Literature Foundation website.

• Miles Morland Writing Scholarship

Who it’s for: Writers who wish to write a full-length book of fiction or nonfiction.

From the website: “Open to anyone writing in the English language who was born in Africa, or both of whose parents were born in Africa.”

What’s included: Scholars will receive a grant of £18,000, paid monthly over the course of twelve months.

Details and how to apply: Visit the Miles Morland Foundation website.

• Sprinng Writing Fellowship

Who it’s for: Young writers between the ages of 18–25.

From the website: “For developing Nigerian, Ghanaian, Liberian, and South African writers with great potential and willingness to learn” and “who are passionate about developing their craft in poetry, fiction, or essays.”

What’s included: A 6-week virtual fellowship featuring weekly mentorship, writing assignments, and feedback.

Note: this opportunity does not include funding. Recipients receive education, encouragement, and support with their writing goals, and are paired with a mentor who reviews their work and gives feedback. Many fellows go on to become published authors.

Details and how to apply: Visit the Sprinng website.

Hotels for Writers

Maybe you applied for a residency, grant, or scholarship, but didn’t get selected this time around.

Or, perhaps you’re looking for a different kind of experience.

Why not book a room at a hotel with a literary theme? The perfect place to be inspired and get the words flowing!

Create your own dream writing retreat at one of these hotels…

• The Library Hotel in New York City, New York

Overview: Each floor is themed by Dewey Decimal categories. Rooftop Writer’s Den & Poetry Garden, plus 6,000‑book Reading Room.

Beds featured velvet throw pillows that say: “Book lovers never go to bed alone.”

Check out the Reading & Rosé package, which includes accommodation plus a classic novel, signature tote bag, and bottle of Proverb Rosé.

More details: Visit the Library Hotel website.

• The Writer Studio at Maker Hotel in Hudson, New York

Overview: A luxurious, book-lined 450-square-foot suite designed for solitude and creativity. Vintage typewriters. A writing desk overlooking Hudson’s historic district.

From the website: “Original oak fireplace and built-in bookcases from the 1800’s.” “Curated books selected in partnership with Strand Book Store in NYC.”

In addition to this literary suite, the Maker Hotel has 10 additional rooms.

More details: Visit the Maker Hotel website.

• Hotel 1928 in Waco, Texas

Overview: From the website: “An intimate 33-room hotel including four indulgent suites.”

Co-owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines (co-hosts of Fixer Upper on HGTV and founders of the lifestyle brand Magnolia), this hotel features elegant reading nooks, vintage design, and quiet communal spaces perfect for reflection and writing.

Curl up next to the roaring fireplace in a room filled with books. Heaven for writers and bibliophiles!

More details: Visit the Hotel 1928 website.

• Eaton DC in Washington, D.C.

Overview: This hotel includes a library lounge and co-working spaces.

From the website: “Within walking distance of the Smithsonian museums, Black Lives Matter Plaza, Capitol Hill, and the Convention Center.” “More than a hotel. Here, hospitality is a means for community, creativity, and culture.”

More details: Visit the Eaton DC website.

• The Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon

Overview: A former elementary school turned hotel, with classrooms transformed into cozy rooms, many with chalkboards and original details, plus a library-themed bar and quiet corners for writing.

Personal note: I have hosted writing retreats here in the past for my clients. It is delightful!

More details: Visit the Kennedy School website.

Closing Thoughts

Every writer needs a place where they can work without any intrusions. And yes, this includes people who write blog posts, podcast scripts, marketing materials, pitch decks for clients, self-published books, or anything else. It all counts as “writing.”

No matter what kind of creative work you’re doing, you’ll come up with your best ideas — and complete your project faster — when you’re in a beautiful, distraction-free environment.

If you are considering applying for a writing residency, grant, or another opportunity, and thinking, “Oh, they would never pick me…” I encourage you to apply anyway.

I’ve had many colleagues and clients who had this EXACT thought, applied anyway, and got picked.

You never know. It could be you.

As the famous sports quote goes, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

Shoot your shot! It might change your life.

-Alex

PS. One more option to consider…

The Hawaii Writing Retreat

I host a writing retreat in Hawaii once a year. The next one is January 8-14, 2026.

Pick a writing project that’s important to you — your book, essay collection, newsletter, materials for your clients, or anything you want to focus on.

• Come spend a week in paradise.
• No kids, pets, laundry, meetings, or anything else tugging at your attention.
• Quiet, distraction-free time to get important work done.

Retreat Includes

• Five-star accommodation (6 nights, 7 days)
• Your own private bedroom and private bathroom at the villa (no sharing)
• Luxe amenities including a pool, jacuzzi, and fitness center
• Airport pick-up and drop-off
• Chef-prepared meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, every day)
• Yoga and meditation classes
• Sound bath experience
• Full-body massage
• Whale watching adventure
• Guided nature walk through the Kona Cloud Forest
• An evening of live music with cocktails and mocktails
• Small, introvert-friendly atmosphere (eight retreat guests, max)
• One-on-one time to discuss your project, ask questions, and get input
• Coworking (online) after the retreat to keep the momentum going
• And other experiences to inspire you and get your creativity flowing

Most importantly, you’ll have lots of quiet time to work on your project. Leave the retreat feeling proud and accomplished (“I got so much done!”), refreshed, and energized, with your batteries fully charged for the year ahead.

Details and How to Book Your Spot

• Check out the brochure for details and pricing.
• Here’s where to reserve your room.

About the Author

Alexandra Franzen is a writer, award-winning editor, co-founder of a bookstore, and creator of 10 books and card decks.

Recent projects include Awestruck: 52 Experiments to Find Wonder, Joy, and Meaning in Everyday Life (Chronicle), Love Is Blind: the Date Night Deck (a collaboration with Union Square and Netflix), and an oracle deck for book lovers called The Bibliophile Deck (Clarkson Potter / Penguin Random House).

Her work has been mentioned in The New York Times Small Business Blog, The Atlantic, The Los Angeles Times, Fast Company, Inc., in Tim Ferriss’ newsletter, and she has appeared on the Peabody Award-winning radio show, Marketplace.

As a writing partner and editor, Alex works with a small number of clients each year — helping her clients write powerful books that touch readers deeply. Projects include Your Next Level Life by Karen Arrington (NAACP Image Award, Outstanding Instructional Literary Work), We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers (Wall Street Journal Bestseller), Unicorn Team by Jen Kem (USA Today National Bestseller), Rich Relationships by Selena Soo (USA Today and Los Angeles Times Bestseller), among many others.

Alexandra deleted all of her social media accounts 10 years ago. Instead of being active on social media, she writes a newsletter, called one of the “14 newsletters you need in your inbox” by Brit+Co.